Helping constituents with problems is a very important part of my work as an MP. I hold advice surgeries regularly throughout the year. The next one will be held on:
Friday 29 August
6pm - 7pm, Aintree Library (Altway) - map
7:15pm - 8:30pm, Kirkby One Stop Shop - map
Click here for a list of dates and locations of other surgeries during 2008.
What sort of advice can I give?
I can only deal with problems for you if you live in Knowsley North and Sefton East. If you live outside this constituency you should approach your own MP. You can find out who your MP is by entering your postcode into the constituency locator.
As an MP I am best placed to help you with problems which relate to Government Departments or Agencies.
What am I not allowed to do?
There are a number of things I am not allowed to do:
- influence legal actions or court cases. For that sort of problem you should consult a qualified solicitor. I am not legally qualified so cannot give legal advice.
- instruct any Department or Agency on what they should do, nor can I instruct the local Council what to do. I can make representations on your behalf, and make sure these are taken into account.
- become involved in personal disputes between you and someone else.
More information
The House of Commons Library publishes factsheets about the work of Parliament including one which deals specifically with the role of an MP in relation to constituents.
Who else might be able to help?
If you have a problem to do with the local council then you should contact your local councillor first. You can find out who your local councillor is by clicking here if you are in Knowsley and here for Sefton. Alternatively you can phone Knowsley council on 0151 489 6000 or Sefton council on 0845 140 0845.
On issues to do with the European Parliament you can contact Brian Simpson MEP.
